MOURNERS have said farewell to a stalwart of the Hoddlesden community.

Harry Taylor, 76, of Earls Drive, died peacefully at home surrounded by his loving family, after losing his battle with cancer.

Tributes to the devoted husband, father and grandfather, who also lived for many years in Darwen, poured in from friends and colleagues touched by his kindness and dedication.

Mr Taylor was a familiar face known through his long-term membership of clubs and societies and his charity fundraising.

But he is perhaps best known for his work as chairman of Pickup Bank Chapel Committee where he worked to restore the run-down chapel into the condition it is today. He also researched and wrote a book on the chapel's history from 1950 to 2001.

Along with wife Agnes, Mr Taylor dedicated much of his time fundraising. Once a week the couple would visit Blackburn Hospice where Mr Taylor played organ to entertain residents.

They also raised funds for Darwen's Macmillan Cancer Relief charity, with Mr Taylor serving as chairman. Macmillan's North West area fundraising manager Josie Swindles said: "He was a really lovely man and someone who did so much for the charity. He was especially good at selling our Christmas cards. We've never done as well with them since he retired.

"He was a real motivator of people. This is a sad loss to the community."

East Lancashire Organ Society, of which Mr Taylor was an active member for more than 30 years, held a minute's silence at its monthly concert at BAE Systems, Samlesbury, on Monday.

Society chairman and close friend Harold Eckersley said: "Harry was a valued member and very well respected - his decisions were always listened to.

"He left the society a couple of years ago to dedicate his time to helping Macmillan Cancer Relief. It is ironic that he should become one of cancer's victims."

The funeral service was held at Pickup Bank old chapel followed by an interment in the churchyard.

His family asked for no flowers, but told well-wishers they could donate money to the chapel funds.

Mr Taylor leaves his widow Agnes and grown-up daughter and son Sue and Martin.